Discover Madrid, 1987 – A Deep Dialogue in a Small Space

🎬 Madrid, 1987 is a bold Spanish film directed by David Trueba, premiered in 2011 at the San Sebastián Film Festival and captured the spotlight at Sundance 2012. More than just a cinematic masterpiece, it’s an introspective journey that explores generational conflict, ideals, and the essence of journalism in post-Franco Spain. Featuring brilliant performances by José Sacristán and María Valverde, Madrid, 1987 offers a unique, intelligent, and emotionally charged cinematic experience.

📖 Synopsis

The film revolves around the chance encounter between Miguel , a jaded veteran journalist (José Sacristán), and Ángela , a young journalism student full of ideals (María Valverde). What begins as an interview in a Madrid café in 1987 takes an unexpected turn when Miguel invites Ángela to a friend’s apartment. However, a comical yet significant incident leaves them trapped in a cramped bathroom. In this claustrophobic space, the two are forced to confront each other through incisive dialogues about journalism, politics, love, and the differences between generations.

The setting of 1987 Madrid, 12 years after the end of Franco’s regime, is crucial. Spain is in transition to democracy, but the wounds of the past linger. Miguel represents the generation that lived through dark times, while Ángela symbolizes the youth who grew up in freedom but are seen as lacking in depth. Their dialogue is not merely a personal debate, but a reflection of the cultural and social changes in Spain at the time.

🎭 Performances and Direction

• José Sacristán plays Miguel with a masterful performance, bringing to life an arrogant yet vulnerable journalist. His character embodies contradictions: a conceited intellectual who yearns to be understood. Sacristán brings a depth that makes the viewer empathize with him and, at the same time, uncomfortable.
• María Valverde , in the role of Ángela, shines as an intelligent but naive young woman. Although she spends much of the film listening, Valverde dazzles in key moments, especially in a final monologue where her character asserts herself.
• David Trueba , director and screenwriter, brilliantly uses the limited space to create a captivating film. His minimalist style, combined with long, sharp dialogue, is reminiscent of My Dinner with Andre , but with a distinctive Spanish touch. Trueba addresses sensitive themes such as desire, age, and power with subtlety, avoiding the sensationalist or explicit.

🌟 Highlights

• Brilliant dialogue : The film is a verbal battle where each sentence carries philosophical, professional, and social weight. Lovers of dialogue-based films will find Madrid, 1987 deeply satisfying.
• Historical Context : The work recreates a Spain in transformation, where past and future collide. References to the post-Franco era and figures such as Adolfo Suárez (who led the democratic transition) help explain the political and social background.
• Artistic Value : With a bathroom as its main setting, the film challenges Trueba’s creativity to keep the viewer engaged. This minimalism highlights the performances and the script.
• Music and photography : Irene Tremblay’s soundtrack is subtle yet moving, while Leonor Rodríguez’s cinematography takes advantage of the limited space to create a sense of authenticity and intimacy.

🗳️ Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes : 86% (based on 7 reviews), with an average score of 6.6/10.
• Metacritic : 61/100, described as “a fascinating study of generational conflict in a closed bathroom” (Rene Rodriguez, Miami Herald).
• Critic Jonathan Holland ( Variety ) called it “an extremely discursive but profound work that captures the spirit of a changing Spain.”
• However, some consider the film to be too long and lack cinematic quality, being more suitable for the stage (Fionnuala Halligan, Screen Daily ).

🎥 Why Watch It?

Madrid, 1987 isn’t a film for everyone. If you prefer fast-paced action or complex storylines, this may not be your ideal choice. But if you enjoy arthouse cinema, intelligent dialogue, or want to explore Spanish history and culture, this film is a gem. It invites you to reflect on how we connect across generations, ideals, and our own limitations.

📺 Where to Watch It?

You can enjoy Madrid, 1987 on platforms such as:

• Fandango at Home (free with ads or rent/buy).
• Filmzie (free with ads).
• Tubi (free).

💬 Share Your Opinion!

Have you seen Madrid, 1987 yet ? What did you think of the dialogue between Miguel and Ángela? Leave your comment and let’s discuss this unique film! 🎥✨

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